What are the major issues facing the Gasparilla Island Bridge Authority and how would you address them?
Major, substantial issues face the Gasparilla Island Bridge Authority and the community it serves. Most importantly is the critical need to engage the community, to listen and build consensus through education and involvement of all the people who use this access artery. A lot of work has been done to evaluate and ensure the safety and life term of the bridges. The design contract has been awarded for replacement of the fixed bridges. Since the public must pay for this replacement in one form or another, serving the public need requires exploration and education of all the financing options. Reality checks on the costs and all reasonable ownership options should be considered. There is not one single best answer. Sometimes it takes the implementation of an unpopular policy, such as the 20 MPH limit for the entire causeway, to get the attention of the users. The people got involved, voiced their concerns and a new MPH was confirmed by the Authority. The people were heard. More important
